They slogged through a wet and muddy Queen’s Park yesterday, but the consensus was that Agrofest 2018 was well worth it.
Scores of people were seen rolling up their pants legs, picking their way through a wet and mushy pasture, and one woman even went as far as tying plastic bags over her shoes to avoid soiling them. Some tried to hop from one dry patch of grass to another, while others avoided the entire Spartan cricket playing field and walked along the pavement instead.
But despite the conditions, some patrons expressed their satisfaction about what the agricultural exhibit had to offer.
Hal King, who has been attending the show for the past four years, brought his eight-year-old daughter and one-year-old son to the event this year. Although he said the mud was bothersome, especially since children were there, he said he always enjoyed the family atmosphere of the exhibition and this year he was not disappointed.
Gayle Ishmael and her friend who identified herself as Judi-Ann brought their grandchildren with them. Judi-Ann said the show gave Barbadians a chance to see the plethora of talent the island has, adding it was interesting to see the various products which could be made from agricultural produce.
“There is always a variety of things to see and do at Agrofest and that is what I love about it,” said Ishmael, who attended the show for the first time in six years. “I like to see it full of people since it is an annual show that offers a good blend of culture, food and plants.”
Retired secondary school teacher Mrs Blackman was fond of the exotic birds on show even though she admitted having to walk through mud was upsetting. Given the weather, she suggested that the show be held in the latter part of the year.
“Other than choosing where to walk, I am having a fantastic time. I was also pleased to see the manner in which the island’s children carried themselves yesterday, and, unfortunately, I had to leave early because of the rain,” she added.
Scores of patrons also got the opportunity to meet and greet Governor General Dame Sandra Mason during her visit to the exhibit. Dame Sandra took a tour of different stalls including the plant, rabbit, jewellery, baskets and leather shoe booths.
Captivated by the animals on show at the event, she even watched the beef and dairy showing competition.
Chief executive officer of the Barbados Agricultural Society, James Paul, said he was pleased with the number of animals and farmers participating in the show events, adding that the friendly rivalry had helped farmers improve genetics on their farms as they sought to showcase the best animals possible. (SB)